6 порад для ефективної співпраці з іноземним тех-партнером

Hiring an international outsourcing partner can save you time and money, but it often comes with a long transition process: different work ethic, culture differences, or another timezone. Can you avoid or minimize stress when working with a foreign tech vendor? What are some of the tips and tricks to ensure the communication goes smoothly? Today, we’ll learn about 6 important steps for effective partner management in software outsourcing.

Do your research

Choosing a tech vendor is a rather tedious process, but the more time and effort you spend on it, the more satisfied you will be in the long term. There are many things you have to consider when choosing a tech partner, ranging from the tech stack they work with to successful cases and references. Our short guide of things to pay attention to when you want to partner with Ukrainian tech companies is available here. 

Define the scope of work

It’s important to ensure that both you and your partner have clear expectations about the scope of the project. Understanding the project’s details, including tech specification, source code (if applicable), design guidelines, etc. is vital. So is the timeline of the project, and budget expectations. If the project’s deadline changes, you have to notify the partner as soon as possible and mutually agree on the plan of action and available solutions.

Determine realistic goals

Setting the right KPIs for your tech partner both during and at the end of the project is an essential prerequisite for its overall success. In order to maximize your cooperation with the partner’s team, it’s important to continuously evaluate work progress and accurately voice up your expectations. If once the project has already begun, your objectives changed, ensure that KPIs will be adjusted accordingly.

Choose communication channels

Email is a bit old-fashioned, don’t you agree? Take advantage of vendor management software available on the market, or use communication tools such as Slack, Trello, or Jira. Discuss with your tech partner whatever software would be the most convenient for both parties. Messenger apps will allow you to instantly connect with the team and address an issue, but organizing sprint meetings at least every fortnight will allow you to always stay updated with your project.

Appoint project manager

There’s no need to repeat that communication is the key. Having a dedicated manager that will work closely with the tech partner can save you from unneeded stress. The project manager should work closely with the partner’s team lead, overseeing communication plans, project quality, and deadlines. Make sure that the project manager meets with the partner regularly whether on-site or offline to evaluate the project’s progress and analyze the team’s performance.

Be mindful of cultural differences

The tech industry might be one of the most laid-back and flexible, but it’s also one of the most diverse ones. Not only your tech partner might be from a completely different culture, but their team might also include team members from different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. Don’t underestimate the power of intercultural communication, and make sure you are aware of culture-specific holidays, work ethics, offensive behavior, as well as time differences.

While software outsourcing might sound like a challenging process, the tips listed above should ease it out for you. Remember, the project’s success could be in danger without clear communication and expectations. Bear in mind these short tips and outsource your project to a top software development company in Ukraine.